Dealing with water damage in your home can be stressful and overwhelming. Finding the right water damage restoration company to help with the cleanup and repairs is crucial. Here are some tips on what to look for when picking a water damage restoration company, how much it typically costs, and whether you should hire a professional or try to do it yourself.
What to Look for in a Water Damage Restoration Company?
When looking for a good water damage restoration company, here are some key things to consider:
- Experience and Training: Choose a company that has extensive experience with water damage cleanup and restoration. Look for technicians who are IICRC certified in water damage restoration. This shows they have undergone proper training.
- Quick Response Time: The faster the response, the less damage will occur. Look for a company that can start work within 24 hours of the initial call.
- Proper Equipment: Make sure the company has powerful extraction equipment, dehumidifiers, air movers, and other professional gear needed for water removal and drying out a property quickly.
- Good Reputation: Read online reviews and ask for references from past clients. A reputable company will have a solid history of satisfied customers.
- Insurance and Licensing: Only hire insured and licensed contractors for this type of work. This protects you in case any damage occurs.
- Detailed Inspection and Documentation: The company should do a thorough inspection of the property and provide detailed documentation of the water damage for insurance claims.
- Fair Pricing: Get estimates from a few companies and compare. Beware of extremely low-ball offers, as they may indicate a lack of experience or equipment.
How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost?
The cost of water damage restoration can vary greatly based on the size of the affected area and extent of the damage. On average, for a standard 2,000 square foot home, basic water extraction and drying typically costs $2,500 to $5,000. Major damage or mold issues can drive the costs up to $10,000 or more. Rates usually run between $3 to $7 per square foot.
Key factors that influence water damage restoration costs include:
- Size of the affected area
- Type of water damage (clean water, sewage, stagnant water, etc)
- How long the water was left untreated
- Amount of carpeting, flooring, drywall, etc that needs replacing
- Extent of mold growth that needs remediation
- Necessity of structural repairs.
Many water damage companies offer thermal imaging to inspect behind walls for hidden moisture. This technology can save money on unnecessary demolition.
Should I Hire a Professional or Do It Myself?
It is highly advisable to hire a professional water damage restoration company rather than try to do it yourself. Water damage that is improperly treated can lead to structural issues and encourage mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours.
Professional companies have the specialized equipment, materials, and training to:
- Fully extract standing water, moisture in carpets, walls, and other materials
- Properly monitor and control humidity levels
- Dry all affected areas quickly to prevent mold
- Identify and repair the source of leaks
- Treat or remove mold growth
- Make necessary repairs to walls, floors, etc
- Communicate with your insurance company.
Doing water damage restoration yourself is very difficult without professional gear. And mistakes in the drying process can cause secondary damage. The pros at a company like waterdamage-renonv.com have the right tools and expertise to handle water damage quickly, thoroughly and safely. Don’t risk further damage – get a free estimate from the professionals!
FAQs
What are some common causes of water damage in a home?
Some common causes include broken or leaky pipes, overflows from appliances like washing machines or dishwashers, heavy rains and flooding, and issues with the roof, windows, or foundation.
How soon after water damage occurs should I call for restoration services?
It’s crucial to call for water damage help as soon as possible, within 24-48 hours. The faster the drying process starts, the less damage to your home.
What methods do water damage companies use during restoration?
Companies use truck-mounted extraction machines to remove standing water. Then dehumidifiers and drying equipment are placed throughout the home to control moisture levels. Thermal imaging helps find hidden moisture in walls. Antimicrobial agents may be applied to prevent mold growth.
Can I use my homeowner’s insurance for water damage restoration?
Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies cover water damage restoration up to the policy limits. Contact your agent to start a claim on your water damage losses. Keep receipts and all documentation from the restoration company.
How can I prevent water damage in my home?
Regularly inspect your home for leaks and immediately fix any issues. Install water sensors in leak-prone areas. Make sure gutters are cleared and the grounds slope away from the foundation. Address cracks in the foundation. Maintain appliances and plumbing fixtures.
